Fatima Zahra has made history as Pakistan’s first female boxer to win a Commonwealth Games medal, but the young fighter believes improved training facilities and preparation could have helped her go one step further and secure the gold medal.
Competing in the women’s 60kg boxing category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Fatima Zahra secured a historic bronze medal for Pakistan. Her achievement marked the country’s first-ever women’s boxing medal at the Commonwealth Games.
Speaking after her historic performance, Fatima Zahra said that better facilities and training conditions could have made a significant difference. She expressed confidence that with preparation comparable to leading international boxers, she could have challenged for the gold medal.
Her comments have once again highlighted the challenges faced by Pakistani athletes, particularly in sports that receive limited resources and international exposure. Access to modern training facilities, experienced coaches, international competitions and high-quality equipment can play an important role in preparing athletes for major events.
Despite falling short of gold, Fatima Zahra’s bronze represents a major breakthrough for women’s boxing in Pakistan. The achievement is particularly significant because Pakistan only began entering women’s teams in international boxing competitions around a decade ago.
Fatima Zahra has also spoken about the influence of Indian boxing legend Mary Kom, whose career inspired her to pursue the sport and aim for success at the highest level.
Her historic medal has brought renewed attention to women’s boxing in Pakistan and could encourage greater investment in the sport.
For Fatima Zahra, however, the bronze is only the beginning. With better training, facilities and international preparation, she believes Pakistan can aim for an even bigger prize at future international competitions.
